Super Foods for Boosting Immunity

A super food is defined as one that’s readily available, comprises of a variety of nutrients that combat disease, doesn’t need any added fat or salty seasoning to make it delicious and is also economical. Superfoods helpful for boosting immunity provide the body with the much-needed nutrients for fending off infections and viruses, but also aid the body for fighting against illnesses related to the immune system such as arthritis. Research has also shown that some types of cancers can also be prevented with superfoods meant for boosting immunity. People are willing to do anything to protect themselves against sickness so they should incorporate the following superfoods in their diet for giving their immune system a boost:

Sweet Potato

These are the perfect super food as they are one of the best sources of Vitamin A. One potato can meet 561% of the daily value and it has some serious powers that boost the immune system. Immune health can be supported by Vitamin A as it ensures that the natural barrier that protects against germs i.e. the mucous membranes and skin of the lungs and digestive tract stays strong and healthy. One whole sweet potato can provide nutritional benefits for promoting good health and people can enjoy it cubed, mashed, baked or even sautéed.

Greek Yogurt

Probiotics are friendly bacteria, which can be found in the creamy and thick fermented snack food called Greek yogurt. These microorganisms give the body the ability of reducing inflammation, fighting off infection and also reduce the growth of harmful bacteria. Most yogurts can provide these benefits to people. People can take one 4-ounce to 6-ounce serving of yogurt on a daily basis for filling the body with good bacteria and also fulfilling the daily protein, potassium, Vitamin D and calcium.

Green Tea

This tea can reduce the risk of acquiring several types of cancer including pancreatic, lung, stomach and colon because it is rich in powerful antioxidants polyphenols. These polyphenols also aid in combating with bacteria that gives rise to stomach ulcers. While there are numerous immune-boosting benefits associated with green tea, it also contains caffeine and iron bioavailability can be affected because of it. One or two cups of green tea can provide people with the benefits without the side effects.

Garlic

Garlic is a superfood that can be used for adding flavor to various dishes without using any salt or fat. In fact, it can also add allicin, which is a bioactive chemical. There is antibacterial activity in this chemical that can be used for combating infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella. People can also fight off the common cold with garlic and one clove of raw garlic is enough to boost immune health.

Mushrooms

Low in calories, mushrooms are laden with a horde of health-promoting nutrients such as Vitamin D, potassium, Selenium and B vitamins. But, beta-glucan is the primary component in mushrooms that can provide protection against cancer, slow down the tumor growth and bolster the immune system. 1 ounce of raw or cooked mushroom can be taken daily.